In recent years, social media platforms have become an integral part of our daily lives, influencing everything from fashion and food to health and wellness. One platform that has seen a meteoric rise in popularity is TikTok, known for its short-form video content and viral trends. While TikTok offers a wealth of entertaining and informative content, it has also become a breeding ground for misinformation, including advice related to dental health. 

The Rise of TikTok Dental Influencers 

TikTok’s user-friendly interface and algorithm, which prioritizes content that resonates with viewers, have made it particularly attractive to dental influencers. These influencers, often with a large following, share their personal experiences with dental procedures, products, and home remedies. While some influencers may have legitimate dental backgrounds, many do not possess the necessary qualifications to provide accurate and comprehensive dental advice. 

Increasingly, young people look to TikTok for all manner of health and wellness advice, including advice on dental health and cosmetics. This is leading to a number of unforeseen and alarming complications. 

Viral DIY Tooth Filing 

A TikTok trend horrifying dentists across the nation is DIY tooth filing. Dental professionals are alarmed by the growing number of patients seeking treatment for complications arising from patients attempting to aggressively alter their own teeth. The allure of quick and easy solutions to cosmetic dental issues has driven many to try these procedures, often without considering the potential consequences. 

One of the most common DIY dental techniques promoted on TikTok is tooth filing. Individuals use nail files or other abrasive materials to attempt to straighten or reshape their teeth. While the intention may be to achieve a more aesthetically pleasing smile, the reality is that this practice can cause severe damage to the teeth. 

The enamel, the hard outer layer of the tooth, is essential for protecting the underlying dentin and pulp. When individuals file their teeth, they are stripping away this protective layer, exposing the sensitive dentin. This can lead to extreme sensitivity, pain, and even tooth decay. Additionally, filing teeth can disrupt the natural alignment of the bite, potentially causing jaw pain and other complications. 

It is crucial to emphasize that dental procedures require specialized training and expertise. Dentists undergo extensive education and training to understand the intricacies of oral health and to perform procedures safely and effectively. Attempting to perform dental procedures without proper knowledge or equipment can have disastrous consequences.  

The Dangers of Jawline Gum: A TikTok Trend to Avoid 

The popularity of social media platforms like TikTok has fueled a wide range of trends, from fitness challenges to beauty hacks. While many of these trends are harmless, some can pose significant risks to health and well-being. One such trend that has recently gained attention is the use of rock-hard chewing gum to achieve a more defined jawline. 

While the idea of sculpting one’s facial features may seem appealing, dental experts warn that this trend is not only ineffective but also potentially harmful. Dr. John Callahan, president of the American Association of Orthodontists, emphasizes the risks associated with DIY products that claim to alter facial structure without professional supervision. 

The belief that chewing extra-hard gum can lead to a chiseled jawline is largely unfounded. While the practice may temporarily increase muscle mass in the jaw, it will not significantly alter the underlying bone structure. Excessive chewing can actually make the masseter muscle appear larger, giving the face a more squared or “robotic” look. 

Additionally, constant chewing can put strain on the jaw joints and teeth, leading to pain, discomfort, and even damage. Experts emphasize the importance of genetics in determining jawline shape: working out the masseter muscle will not change the actual jawbone. 

While some companies selling rock-hard chewing gum claim that their products are safe when used as directed, dental experts remain concerned about the potential risks. Even brief periods of intense chewing can generate enough force to damage teeth. The American Dental Association advises against using any products that require excessive force to achieve desired results. 

The Problem with Unlicensed Dental Advice 

The primary concern with individuals offering dental advice on TikTok without proper licensing is the potential for spreading misinformation and misleading viewers. Without the necessary training and expertise, these influencers may promote ineffective or even harmful dental practices. Some common examples of misleading dental advice found on TikTok include: 

• DIY orthodontics: Influencers may suggest using home remedies or unconventional methods to straighten teeth, which can lead to serious dental problems. 
• Teeth whitening hacks: Many influencers promote teeth whitening products and methods that can damage tooth enamel and cause sensitivity. 
• At-home dental cleanings: Influencers may recommend using household items or store-bought products to clean teeth, which can be abrasive and lead to gum recession. 

The Impact on Dental Professionals 

The growing popularity of TikTok dental influencers has had a significant impact on dental professionals. Many patients arrive at dental offices with unrealistic expectations or misconceptions about dental care, having been influenced by misleading information on social media. This can lead to increased stress and frustration for dentists and their staff, as they must spend time correcting misinformation and educating patients about proper dental hygiene. 

Furthermore, the rise of TikTok dental influencers has created a competitive landscape for dental professionals. Influencers can attract a large following and generate significant income through sponsored content and affiliate marketing. This can make it challenging for dentists to compete for patients in a crowded marketplace. 

Addressing the Issue of Misinformation 

To address the problem of misinformation on TikTok and protect the public’s dental health, dental professionals and organizations must take proactive steps. Here are some strategies that can be implemented: 

Education and awareness:

Dental professionals should educate their patients about the dangers of relying on social media for dental advice. They can provide resources and information about reputable sources of dental information. 

Collaboration with social media platforms:

Dental organizations can partner with TikTok and other social media platforms to develop guidelines for content creators related to dental health. This could involve fact-checking and flagging misleading content. 

Creating engaging dental content:

Dental professionals can leverage social media platforms to create their own engaging content that provides accurate and informative dental advice. This can help counter the influence of misinformation spread by unlicensed influencers. 

Supporting reputable influencers: Dental organizations can identify and support dental influencers who possess the necessary qualifications and provide accurate dental information. This can help elevate the quality of dental content on social media platforms. 

Conclusion 

The trend of people seeking dental advice from TikTok influencers presents a significant challenge for dental professionals. While social media can be a valuable tool for education and communication, it is essential to be aware of the potential dangers of misinformation. By taking proactive steps to educate patients, collaborate with social media platforms, and create high-quality dental content, dental professionals can help protect the public’s dental health and combat the spread of misleading information on TikTok.